Author: Editorial Team
Rafha, May 15, 2026, SPA — The deserts of Rafha have seen a significant resurgence of spiny-tailed lizards, signaling ecological recovery in Northern Borders Region. This return to natural habitats follows a decline in overhunting and environmental pressures, aided by rising temperatures and seasonal vegetation growth. Experts attribute this recovery to strict environmental enforcement by the Special Forces for Environmental Security and increased public awareness regarding wildlife preservation. These combined efforts have effectively reduced poaching and stabilized local biodiversity. As diurnal herbivores, these lizards play a critical role in the desert ecosystem by aerating soil and improving rainwater infiltration through…
BANGKOK — Thailand has urged Iran to ensure the safe passage of eight Thai-flagged vessels stranded near the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing restrictions in the strategic waterway, Thai media reported. The request was made by Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi on Thursday, according to the Thai Enquirer news website. During the discussions, Sihasak expressed concern over the escalating Middle East conflict and its global economic impact, particularly navigation restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, where vessels from several…
NEW YORK — Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Wasel emphasized the critical importance of protecting maritime routes and freedom of navigation, specifically in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, as pillars for international supply chains. He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to global market stability, sustainable development, and ensuring reliable energy flows to support the global economy. Al-Wasel made the remarks while addressing the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Special Meeting on “Safeguarding energy and supply flows: Supporting global development through international cooperation” in New York. Al-Wasel condemned attacks on energy infrastructure andcivilian…
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has approved the registration of Etcamah (camizestrant) for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer with an ESR1 gene mutation that emerges during first-line hormonal therapy, in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors. This approval sets a pioneering precedent for SFDA among leading global regulatory authorities, reflecting the its commitment to accelerating patient access to innovative therapeutic options through the Breakthrough Medicine Program. Etcamah (camizestrant) is an oral selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) and a complete estrogen receptor antagonist. It acts…
RIYADH — Saudi Grand Mufti and President of the Council of Senior Scholars Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan has urged Muslims to increase their righteous deeds and worship, such as prayer, charity, fasting, and frequent remembrance of Allah during the blessed first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah. He highlighted the Prophetic Traditions that indicate that righteous deeds performed during these days are more beloved to God Almighty than deeds performed at any other time. “Muslims should strive to increase their righteous deeds during these days, while being diligent in performing obligatory acts of worship and avoiding sins. These ten days are a…
JEDDAH — Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman held on Friday a phone call with Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During the call, the leaders reviewed bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Qatar and discussed areas of cooperation between the two countries. They also reviewed regional and international developments, the evolving situation in the region, and ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability. Source: Saudi Gazette
KPMG Middle East announced the appointment of Islam Ahmad Al Bayaa as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 October 2026. The announcement follows a rigorous and independent selection process led by the firm’s governance bodies, supported by external advisors, and concluded through a partner vote. Al Bayaa succeeds Dr. Abdullah Al Fozan, Chief Executive Officer, who will complete his current term on 30 September 2026 and who will continue to lead the firm through the transition. Currently serving as Head of Advisory for KPMG Middle East, Al Bayaa leads more than 2,400 professionals and 100 partners across the region. He brings…
The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has finalized its operational plan for the 1447 AH Hajj season, maximizing efficiency and ensuring a safe, seamless experience for pilgrims through advanced technical and logistics preparations. At the Grand Mosque, crowd management has been optimized in the Mataf and Mas’a areas, supported by high-efficiency air conditioning and smart electrical systems in expansion facilities. New guidance measures include interactive 3D maps and multilingual screens, while the engineering command and control center provides real-time monitoring. Logistics have also been bolstered, featuring enhanced Zamzam water…
The UAE has become the third country to approve Miebo, a new eye drop that treats the dry eye disease, after the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) cleared the medication for use in the country. The treatment, developed by Bausch + Lomb, is aimed at treating the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and can impact visual comfort and quality of life. Miebo contains an active substance called perfluorohexyloctane and is the first prescription eye drop designed to directly target tear evaporation, one of the leading causes of the dry eye disease.…
The craft of making the igal (a doubled black cord accessory worn by Arab men) remains a vital symbol of Arab identity and a cornerstone of heritage in Jazan Region. Ali Al-Anzi, a second-generation craftsman, explained that while fashion styles evolve, the igal persists as a mark of dignity. Modern versions utilize both synthetic fibers and high-quality natural wools, with the latter favored for their stability and sheen. The meticulous 30-minute manufacturing process involves several traditional stages: padding the wooden base, spinning black silk or wool thread over the core, joining the ends, and using a mold and mallet to…